Eight years ago, Emirati Women’s Day was introduced by Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF). Every year, on Aug. 28, the nation pauses to celebrate and honor the achievements of Emirati women across diverse fields—business, arts, sports—who continuously carve new paths for others to follow.
In the spirit of celebrating trailblazing women, we turn our focus to Emirati fashion designers who are making waves in the global fashion scene. From preserving traditional techniques to redefining the art of modesty, these designers deserve a place on your radar.
Gabi
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Deeply rooted in Emirati traditions, Gabi has quickly become a regional fashion staple. Founded by sisters Waad and Sheyma Al Hammadi, the brand embraces a one-size-fits-all mantra, making each piece as versatile as it is impactful. With clean lines and structured tailoring, Gabi embodies the “less is more” philosophy, turning simplicity into a striking statement.
Odeem
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Established in 2018 by Emirati designer Fatma Al Otaiba, Odeem has grown exponentially, with A-listers around the world flaunting its luxury leather goods. This Dubai-based brand is committed to creating timeless pieces, with rich textures that tell a story of their own. After a decade of honing her craft, Al Otaiba has crafted a brand synonymous with uncompromising quality.
Serrb
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The brainchild of three Emirati sisters—Noor, Sarah, and Budoor Al Khaja—Serrb offers kaftans with sophisticated cuts and intricate designs. This homegrown brand is a testament to the elegance of minimalism, with each piece meticulously crafted to make women feel their absolute best.
Twisted Roots
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Latifa Al Gurg’s Twisted Roots, launched in 2014, adds a modern twist to traditional Emirati fashion. Drawing inspiration from her heritage and love of travel, Al Gurg’s designs fuse culture with contemporary flair. The result is a brand that speaks to the modern, well-traveled woman.
YNM
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Founded by Yasmin Al Mulla in 2014, YNM is a ready-to-wear label that prides itself on fine craftsmanship. Every garment is handmade in-house, reflecting Al Mulla’s dedication to cultural preservation through a modern lens. The co-founder and creative director of the label has collaborated with various international brands like Christian Dior, Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, and Rene Caovilla, making her one of the most influential Emirati designers in the country.
Qasimi
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Sheikh Khalid Al-Qasimi, the visionary behind the iconic fashion house Qasimi, brought a unique perspective to the fashion world. Educated in London, Khalid fused Arab elements with Western sensibilities, creating a brand that resonated globally. His designs were worn by celebrities like Lady Gaga and Florence Welch. Following his untimely passing in 2019, his twin sister, Sheikha Hoor Al-Qasimi, took the reins, continuing his legacy with the same passion and vision.
Madiyah Al Sharqi
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Daughter of the Ruler of Fujairah, Madiyah Al Sharqi, has carved a niche for herself with her ethereal, feminine designs. Her collections, characterized by soft pastels, delicate lace, and intricate embroidery, have graced the likes of Kendall Jenner and Olivia Palermo, cementing her status on the international fashion stage.
Fatema Fardan
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Fatema Fardan, a graduate of the American Intercontinental University in London, blends her rich cultural heritage with modern fashion in her eponymous label. Known for intricate detailing and luxurious fabrics, Fardan’s designs exude elegance and contemporary charm. Through her platform “Not Just A Label,” she champions emerging designers, offering a window into the world of contemporary luxury fashion. Not only that but, a year after launching her own label, Fardan became the first Emirati to present her designs during New York Fashion Week in 2015.
Gashah Studio
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Launched in 2017 by Dubai-based Shaikha Al Ali, Gashah Studio is reshaping Khaleeji culture by blending traditional forms with modern aesthetics. This isn’t your mother’s mukhawara—this is tradition, reimagined for today’s world.
Onori
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Founded by Sharifa AlSharif AlHashemi, Onori is not your average Emirati label. The designer launched her womenswear label in 2024, in honor of her father and her late sister, with a debut collection that blends 1960s, 70s, and 80s-inspired silhouettes with well-tailored separates, resulting in playful, vibrant pieces that certainly stand out amid the monochrome sea of abayas, graphic Arabic text T-shirts often permeating the local fashion landscape.
Illi
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Emirati-Moroccan designer Rawdha Thani’s instantly recognizable abaya brand, launched during the pandemic, has gained recognition for its candy-colored palette, fringed sleeves, and celestial-inspired embroidery. The collection of pistachio, lavender, rainbow sorbet, and bow-infused garments has practically revolutionized the concept of the abaya in the region, spawning a number of copycats along the way.
